Data-Driven Data Transmission Mechanism for Wireless Sensor Networks in Harsh Communication Environment

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) often are deployed in harsh environment where reliable communication may not be feasible. This work proposes data-driven data transmission mechanism to improve packet delivery frequency especially in harsh communication environments. In particular, this work evaluates the effect of adjusting data transmission frequency based on data priority, to provide sufficient data quality while minimizing the energy consumption incurred by packet transmission. Increasing transmission frequency of critical messages improves the delivery of high resolution messages even if underlying network does not provide reliable transport while reducing the transmission frequency of non-critical messages contributes to energy conservation. Analytical and simulation evaluation confirm the effectiveness of the proposed dynamic data transmission frequency mechanism.